A 17-story co-op once known as the “Blue Brick Building”
For decades following its completion in 1962, the 17-story structure on the corner of Madison Avenue and East 65th Street was known as the “Blue Brick Building,” a nickname earned due to its unusual aqua-hued exterior, which stuck out next to its Upper East Side neighbors. But that all changed in 2007, when 27 E. 65th St. was sheathed in a new red-brick skin that replaced the original glazed masonry, which was chipped and crumbling due to prolonged water damage from rain. It was a problem not envisioned by its architect, Anthony M. Pavia, who designed the otherwise standard building with a simple silhouette free of decoration or ornament. Upper floors feature a series of setbacks that create a network of private terraces. While elegantly proportioned with large living spaces, generous closets and separate kitchens, the 82 units within were sought after for their prime location rather than the building in which they were housed, which was known to deter some prospective buyers due to its unorthodox color. Despite the current coloration, the building — which was converted to co-ops in 1984 — will always be known to certain New Yorkers as the “Blue Brick Building.”
One-bedroom residences start at $420,000
While the co-op contains mostly one, two and three-bedroom units, several studio apartments can also be found. Prices in the building are lower in part due to higher monthly maintenance costs, with one-bedroom homes starting at around $420,000, and two-bedrooms are available starting at $695,000. Three-bedroom residences can range anywhere from $995,000 to over $2.3 million for a combination unit. The last studio in the building sold in September 2021 for $399,000. Finishes are no longer uniform across the property and vary widely between residences, as do floor plans. “They’re all different,” says Ileana M. Lopez-Balboa, a broker with Corcoran Group who recently listed a two-bedroom unit the building. “Many have been upgraded.” A variety of wood floors can be found, but some units also have wall-to-wall carpeting. Walk-in closets are common but not included in every residence, and kitchens can be galley-style, eat-in or occupy a walled-off nook, as they do in some studios. Crown molding and architectural millwork are not standard among the units, but some renovated dwellings include custom design elements, such as curving walls in the entry foyer or a sinuous tray ceiling sheathed in goldleaf. “Another thing that is unique is that the building has become very shareholder friendly,” says Lopez-Balboa, referring to current policies that allowing up to 65% financing, pied-a-terres, pets and subletting. The board will also consider guarantors and co-purchasers when reviewing potential offers.
A landscaped rooftop terrace with sweeping city vistas
One of the biggest draws of the full-service building is the private rooftop deck. “It has 360-degree views of the city, beautiful landscaping and high-end furniture,” says López-Balboa. “It’s very elegant.” There is additional laundry in basement, even though many units have their own washers and dryers, plus storage lockers can be rented. For residents with a car, a garage in the building allows for parking on-site. A sense of security is provided thanks to a 24-hour doorman, concierge and a live-in resident manager who keeps the lobby and common areas in well-maintained condition.
Steps from the Upper East Side’s luxury shopping and dining
Located within the Upper East Side Historic District, 27 E. 65th St. is situated in the heart of one of the city’s premiere luxury shopping districts, with global fashion brands including Hermes, Chanel, Versace and Alexander McQueen all within a few blocks. For fine dining, Michelin-starred restaurant Daniel, operated by French chef Daniel Boulud, is just a few doors down. But residents don’t even need to leave the building to find something upscale: Match 65 Brasserie, a Parisian-style bistro, is a popular destination for neighborhood residents and is located on the ground floor. Grocery stores are a little farther afield, with the closest one being the Morton Williams on Third Avenue, about a 15-minute walk. Gourmet Kosher grocery store Ouri’s Market, also on Third Avenue, is another large option nearby that sells a wide variety of prepared foods as well as fresh meat, fish and produce. Lexington Avenue is dotted with numerous casual delis, pharmacies, and coffee shops as well. A major cultural center in the vicinity is the historic Park Avenue Armory, a few blocks from the building, which regularly hosts performances, exhibitions, and educational programs for the community. And Central Park, with its myriad recreational areas and amenities, can be reached in two minutes.
A few blocks from the F and Q trains
The building is a quick walk to several subway lines in opposite directions. The closest are the F and Q trains, which stop at Lexington Avenue and 63rd Street, about two blocks away. The N, R and W lines go to 59th Street and Fifth Avenue, and there’s a 6 train stop at 68th Street and Lexington, at Hunter College. Several prominent bus routes also travel along Madison Avenue, such as the M1, M2, M3 and M4, while the M66 and M72 serve crosstown riders. A Citi Bike dock is located less than a block away, at Madison and 66th Street.
There’s a land lease in effect until 2058
The co-op operates on a 99-year land lease, which is set to expire in 2058. This is significant because the building pays “ground rent” to the leaseholder, which can result in high monthly common charges. For instance, at 27 E. 65th, a two-bedroom apartment listed for $695,000 comes with a maintenance fee of $3,828 per month. Working with a qualified real estate broker or advisor can help to understand the details surrounding this specific arrangement.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
2/ 10
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
77/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
85/ 100
Rider's Paradise
Transit Score®
100/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Grand Army Plaza
7 min walk
St. Catherine's Park
12 min walk
Basketball
Picnic Area
Soccer
Tramway Plaza
13 min walk
Picnic Area
Channel Gardens
3 min drive
Picnic Area
Nature Center
Richard Tucker Park
3 min drive
Picnic Area
Events
Central Park
3 min drive
Andrew Haswell Green Park
3 min drive
Bike Trails
Dog Park
Picnic Area
Twenty-Four Sycamores Park
3 min drive
Basketball
Picnic Area
Playground
Honey Locust Park
4 min drive
Picnic Area
Trails
Schools
Source:
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